Description
Mattes Core Cotton Half Pad with Shims
Mattes half pads are designed to improve comfort and allow subtle saddle balance adjustments without masking underlying saddle-fit issues. This cotton half pad with shims provides a practical, modular solution for riders who need fine adjustment while maintaining stability and close contact.
Lambskin options and comfort
Depending on configuration, the pad can be supplied without sheepskin, with sheepskin on the underside only, or with additional sheepskin at the front and/or rear. Genuine Merino lambskin is selected for its density, softness, and breathability, helping to regulate heat, reduce friction, and provide natural cushioning where required.
Shim pockets and fit adjustment
The pad features integrated pockets designed to accept removable shims. Shims allow riders or saddle fitters to make small, targeted adjustments to saddle balance, helping to accommodate minor asymmetries, changes in muscle development, or temporary fit issues. The shim system is intended for fine adjustment only and should not be used to compensate for an incorrectly fitting saddle.
Mattes half pads are designed with a SpineFree construction, allowing the pad to sit clear of the horse’s spine and reduce pressure along the back. This helps maintain freedom of movement and supports correct saddle placement during work.
An Extra Wide Wither Area (EWWA) option is also available. This involves shaping the pad and reducing lambskin around the wither area to provide additional clearance for horses with wider or more prominent withers.
Cotton top and construction
This half pad is finished with a durable cotton quilt top, offering a breathable, low-bulk surface under the saddle. While custom Mattes half pads are available in additional fabrics such as cotton sheen or velvet, the in stock range focuses on cotton only to provide a faster-available option without compromising on construction quality.
Availability and configuration options
This half pad is held in stock in Mattes warehouse in selected sizes and configurations for faster delivery. Multiple sheepskin layouts are available, allowing riders to choose the level of cushioning and support that best suits their horse. It is also available in three shapes, designed to sit correctly under different saddle types including all purpose, dressage and jumping saddles. Choosing the correct shape helps ensure the pad follows the contours of your saddle without excess material or movement.
If you require a different fabric, colour, or configuration, the pad can also be ordered as a fully bespoke Mattes half pad with the full range of custom options. For help deciding whether a half pad with shims is appropriate for your horse, or for advice on configuration, please contact us.
8 reviews for Mattes Cotton Half Pad with shims
There are no reviews yet.